The girlfriend of Stuart Pearce’s son has paid tribute to “the man I’ll love forever” following his fatal tractor crash.
The former England defender, 63, is grieving after his youngest child Harley, 21, reportedly lost control of the vehicle after a possible tyre blow-out on a country road near the family’s Wiltshire home.
Harley, who ran his own farming business, was pronounced dead on the A417 Old Birdlip Hill in Witcombe last Thursday.
Gloucestershire Police said Pearce and his ex-wife Elizabeth have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
The former couple also have an older daughter, equestrian Chelsea, from their 20-year marriage that ended in 2013.
A tribute left at the scene by his girlfriend Holly Watts read: “To my hunny, the man I'll love forever! I'm so proud of you, and of what we've become.
“You know you have my heart, and I know I have yours. I'll cherish us forever. Forever in your arms, forever in our heart. I love you! Love, Your Holly.”
A Pearce family tribute states: “Our family is truly shocked and utterly heartbroken at the loss of our cherished son and devoted brother, Harley. A soul who left an unforgettable imprint on all who knew him.
“He was a golden boy with an infectious smile, and this shocking tragedy will leave a huge hole in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
“With a quiet, understated strength and deep kindness, we are so proud of the young man he had become, exhibiting a wonderful work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit in the farming industry.
“He will always be our shining star. Rest in Peace, our beautiful son and brother. You will never ever be forgotten.”
His father won 78 caps for the Three Lions, scoring five goals. Nicknamed “Psycho” for his unforgiving style of play, he was best known for a 12 -year spell at Nottingham Forest who he played for over 400 times.
In 1999, he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire by the late Queen for his playing career and charity work.
